10 June 2014

crossing the plains

The Hand-cart migration was a distinct movement in western pioneer travel. From 1856 to 1861, nearly 4000 people crossed the plains on foot. Men and women pushed or pulled their Hand-carts for 1000 miles west of the Missouri River, intent on finding a haven for religious freedom. Every company was under the direction of a captain or leader and was well organized. The Hand-cart companies brought to the State artisans, traders, agriculturalists, blacksmiths, and men learned in the professions. While the hardships were many, the Hand-cart migration stands out as one of the greatest economic and social factors in the History of Utah.